Hotels

As in the case of many Asian destinations, the Western traveler will be pleasantly surprised to find out that the hotel rooms in China are affordable. Obviously, there are hotels for every budget and traveler: from the most luxurious and expensive ones which are perfect for the business travelers to the cheap ones which can fit any budget.

Need to know

The season determines the price. The shoulder seasons – fall and spring – are the most affordable ones to travel to China. Prices are at their highest in mid-August and then drop again in September. Many hotels offer discounts during the shoulder seasons. Booking in advance will get you some discounts, particularly if you plan to head to China to do your Christmas shopping. Most of the online booking systems offer discounted rated even during the high season (mid-August) but it depends a lot on the hotel.

The cities are developing really fast which means there are new hotels popping up every month so make sure to check the lists couple of times before booking.

Worth trying

Beijing

Days Inn Forbidden City is a 3 star hotel located right in the heart of Beijing, near the Forbidden City. Staying here during the high season (mid August) will burn big holes in your pocket (over US$400/night) but if you travel during the shoulder season –May to July or September- you will pay US$79/night/ double room. Pretty much all of the important cultural and artistic landmarks are near the hotel.

Xinhai Jin Jiang Hotel is a 4 star hotel located in the Wangfujing Business Area, close to Tiananmen Square. Restaurant, bar, café and business facilities recommend this hotel for everyone wanting a luxurious place to stay in Beijing. The hotel books up pretty quickly so make sure to book in advance. Discounted prices for the shoulder season are about US$100/night/double room.

Shanghai

Pacific Luck Hotel is a 3 star hotel, recently refurbished and located right in the center of the city. Health and recreation facilities, as well as a restaurant cater for any traveler. Prices are about US$110/night/double room during the summer but special discount rates can lower the price to US$79/night/double room even during the high season. Breakfast is included in the room price.

Panorama Hotel is a 4 star hotel located in the heart of the Financial Street. It’s a very modern hotel with facilities resembling those of the 5 star hotels. Prices are between US$150 and US$200 during the summer (May to August) but special discounts can lower the room price to as low as US$100/night/double room. Breakfast is included in the room price.